Can the old license plate be transferred to a used car?
4 Answers
Can the old license plate be transferred to a used car? The following is detailed information about transferring the old license plate to a used car: 1. Conditions: After the license plate transfer, the old license plate must have been used for one year and can be applied for a new car or a used car under the original owner's name. If there is a vehicle transfer between spouses, the new owner must continue to use the license plate for one year before it can be retained. 2. Notes: For vehicle transfer, you need to bring the vehicle registration certificate and the vehicle must be present. Both parties should bring their ID cards. If the buyer is from another city and needs to register a local license plate, they must apply for a temporary residence certificate at the local police station.
This matter requires discussing policies. I've studied the relevant regulations. In China, retaining an old license plate can only be used on a newly purchased vehicle, not directly transferred to a used car. According to the Road Traffic Safety Law, when you sell your old car, you can apply to the vehicle management office to retain the original license plate, but it must be used on a newly purchased vehicle within one to two years, otherwise the retention becomes invalid. If you buy a used car, the license plate is registered with the vehicle, and the vehicle management office does not allow you to directly transfer the old plate to the used car, because the plate follows the vehicle, not the person. If you try to force it, you may be rejected or face penalties. My suggestion is: if the old license plate has special meaning, it's best to apply for retention when selling the car and then use it when buying a new car; otherwise, the license plate of a used car has no particular value, and focusing on checking the vehicle's condition is more practical. Don't waste your energy on useless hassles!
As a seasoned car buyer and seller, I recall a personal experience. When helping a friend dispose of his old car, he wanted to transfer his good license plate to a used car he just purchased, but the DMV flatly refused. The staff explained clearly: license plates are tied to vehicles and must be reselected or inherited during used car transactions; only when buying a new car can you apply to retain an old plate. That time we made a wasted trip, and later he simply used the old plate when purchasing a new car. This incident shows that rules are rules—don't count on luck. For used cars, license plates aren't a big deal anyway; ensuring the engine and chassis are in good condition is what matters. After learning this lesson, I now focus solely on cost-performance and maintenance records when buying used cars, and don't mind getting new plates.
It's quite simple to operate. My friend asked about it before, so I'll share the info. If you want to keep your old license plate number, you need to apply for a retention certificate at the DMV when selling your car. This way, the plate number can be reserved for your next new vehicle, but you must purchase and register the new car within one or two years. Don't even think about transferring it to a used car—the DMV will reject it because used cars come with their own plates that can't be changed. If you buy a used car, just use the plate that comes with it. My tip: Consult your local DMV in advance and prepare your ID and vehicle documents. If the plate can't be transferred to a used car, don't dwell on it—buying a new car is more cost-effective. This approach saves time and hassle, so don't waste your effort.
